A lot of people have shifted to the Mediterranean diet in recent years, as one of the newer health food crazes takes center stage. But this fad had previously stoked some concerns, namely with the fattier foods like olive oil and nuts, which were thought to make your midsection bulge.

A study that was conducted by the University of Barcelona in Spain followed 7,400 men and women with an age range of 55 to 80. Both were at risk for heart disease and many suffered from diabetes. All told, more than 90% of them were considered obese or grossly overweight.

The study offered three meal plans that included Mediterranean diets that were rich in either olive oil or nuts, or a different low-fat diet.

Following five years, the low fat group demonstrated a fat intake reduction of 37%, down from 40%. The Mediterranean diet participants showed a reduction of 42%, down from 40%.

Notably, all participants lost some weight, an average of about two-pounds per participant. There was no real difference in waistline changes among all three groups, either.

Experts advise that you balance the intake of all fats, regardless of what diet that you are adhering to. Even if you are on a Mediterranean diet, it cannot be stressed that everyone has a body type that is unique to them.

These new study results are motivating. The Mayo Clinic advises that: “The focus of the Mediterranean diet isn’t on limiting total fat consumption, but rather to make wise choices about the types of fat you eat. The Mediterranean diet discourages saturated fats and hydrogenated oils (trans fats), both of which contribute to heart disease.”

If you are considering making a dietary change, make sure that you consult with your physician beforehand to assure the best results.